LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The St. Mary’s County Animal Control Advisory Board met Nov. 5, 2025, to review shelter operations, recognize community advocates, and plan for the year ahead.
Animal Adoption and Resource Center manager Hollis Lampe reported a sharp rise in shelter intake this fall. From Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, the center took in 698 animals — 228 dogs, 407 cats, and 63 small animals or livestock. During the same period in 2024, the shelter accepted 370 animals, an 88.65% increase year over year.
Owner surrenders were a major factor, climbing from 110 last year to 253 this fall, or more than double. “We’re seeing many families who can no longer afford pet care,” Lampe said, noting that the shelter’s pet pantry program has also seen growing demand, with 94 assistance requests over the two-month span compared to about 50 in 2024.
Despite increased intake and a feline panleukopenia outbreak, outcomes remained strong. Between September and October, the shelter recorded 637 outcomes, including 309 adoptions, 59 returns to owner, 33 coalition transfers, 137 TNR cats, 25 animals that died in care, and 74 euthanasias. The overall live release rate was 84% — up from 66% during the same period last year — with 87% for dogs, 82% for cats, and 96% for small animals.
Average stays also shortened to 14 days for dogs and 16 for cats, down from 23 and 29 days in 2024. Shelter adoptions doubled year over year, from 149 to 309. “It’s been a tough couple of months, but I’m proud of the work our staff has done to minimize losses and keep illness contained,” Lampe told the board.
Board members welcomed Dr. Sara Mikeska, a part-time veterinarian specializing in high-volume spay/neuter, who recently joined the shelter team for about 20 hours per week. The meeting also marked Lampe’s one-year anniversary with county government, recognized by the board for “leaps and bounds” of improvement at the shelter.
A highlight of the evening was a letter of appreciation presented to Diane Harris, president of Feral Cat Rescue Inc., for her years of advocacy and leadership in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Feral Cat Rescue has vetted 934 feral cats this year through fostering and TNR, and since partnering with the county center in 2022, has helped vet and release about 210 feral cats that might otherwise have been euthanized. Board members encouraged property owners in safe, rural areas to consider adopting barn or outdoor “working cats.”
The board approved its 2026 meeting calendar, with the first session set for Jan. 7, and plans to present its annual report and hold officer elections that month. Members also bid farewell to Vice Chair Cesar Afanador, who is stepping down after years of service.
“Cesar’s insight and compassion have meant a great deal to this board,” Chair Steve Tuttle said. “We’ll miss his steady leadership.”
Residents wishing to support the shelter may donate food and supplies to the Animal Adoption and Resource Center or contact Feral Cat Rescue to learn about adopting outdoor cats. For more information, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/animalshelter.
Watch the full Animal Control Advisory Board meeting below:
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Here’s another point that isn’t mention, the sky high adoption fees, last year I went to adopt a dog for my family, it was cheaper to buy a puppy then to adopt a dog